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Record 15 Lead Changes Highlight Thrilling NFL Playoffs

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The 2025-26 NFL playoffs set a record with 15 fourth-quarter lead changes across 10 games.
The record surpassed the 2007-08 playoffs' previous mark of 10 lead changes.
The Los Angeles Rams reached the NFC Championship after a string of close losses, including a controversial defeat to the Seattle Seahawks.
The AFC Championship pits the Denver Broncos at home against the New England Patriots for a spot in Super Bowl LX.

History

Historical Context

The 2007 NFL playoffs culminated in Super Bowl XLII, where the New York Giants defeated the New England Patriots 17-14 on February 3, 2008. This marked a historic upset, as the Giants became the first NFC wild card team to win the Super Bowl. The game featured three lead changes in the fourth quarter, a Super Bowl record, highlighting the increasing competitiveness in the league.

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Story summary

The 2025-26 NFL playoffs set a record with 15 fourth-quarter lead changes across 10 games.
The record surpassed the 2007-08 playoffs' previous mark of 10 lead changes.
The Los Angeles Rams reached the NFC Championship after a string of close losses, including a controversial defeat to the Seattle Seahawks.
The AFC Championship pits the Denver Broncos at home against the New England Patriots for a spot in Super Bowl LX.

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